Oregon track and field: Ducks’ answer man, Michael Reilly, leaving for 2012 London Olympics post

Michael Reilly, involved at all levels of UO track under Vin Lananna, takes post with 2012 Olympics, Paralympics

For the past 19 years, whenever Vin Lananna needed a problem solved, he knew exactly where to go for the answer.

The standard response was, “Reilly will fix it.”

Lananna was referring to Michael Reilly, a trusted friend and colleague, whose behind-the-scenes work for the University of Oregon track and field program has been instrumental in delivering on the “big and exciting visions” his boss has created for the sport.

But that relationship will come to an end in July.

Reilly, 41, has accepted a position as Training Venue Manager with the Local Organizing Committee for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games in London.

As Reilly explained it, his new job entails being part of a team that will put together all of the plans and operating procedures for the 18 training or practice venues located near the Olympic athletes’ village during the actual competition.

“The idea is that you check into the village, but your competition is still a couple of days away,” Reilly said. “You need a place to practice and continue to work out. There will be different venues accommodating the different sports.”

Reilly actively sought the position for two reasons.

First, after turning 40 last year, he began to reflect on what types of experiences he wanted to incorporate into his life. Second, after reading an article on the next phase of construction at the Olympic Stadium in London, it dawned on him that the Olympics might be one of those experiences.

“It crystallized in my mind, ‘Oh wow, the Olympic Games,’ that might be